Vlad Lupu Captures Prestigious Open Super 12 Auray Doubles Title

Feature image: Edmonton’s Vlad Lupu (right) and Aidan Xue of BC (left) partner up to win prestigious title in France, following in the footsteps of tennis legends.

Saturday, February 22, 2025 – Auray, France

It’s the championship match. After splitting the opening sets against their opponents, Vlad Lupu and Aidan Xue are headed into the third-set tiebreak. The duo has been here before—this is now their third straight super tiebreak. But with the home crowd roaring for their French rivals, and the title just a few points away, the stakes have never been higher.

“Our mentality going into the tiebreak was: no pressure on ourselves, be there for each other and enjoy every moment, but also give your best and make it happen!” Lupu explained. “Our motto was ‘Just play your game!’” Their attitude and composure in the final tiebreak helped seal the deal, and the boys became champions.

Vlad also competed in the singles event, winning two rounds before falling to the eventual champion, Jakub Kyncl of Czechia.

Open Super 12 Auray: A Legacy of Future Stars

The Open Super 12 Auray is often regarded as an unofficial world championship for U12 players. And its known for its intense competition and track record of featuring future tennis stars: Past champions include Felix Auger-Aliassime (2012), Andy Murray (1999), Rafael Nadal (1998), and Kim Clijsters (1997).

Even more notable, perhaps, are the names of those who competed but did not win: Carlos Alcaraz, Grigor Dimitrov, Dominic Thiem, and Gaël Monfils, all of whom went on to have illustrious professional careers. The tournament continues to serve as a stepping stone for rising stars, offering a glimpse at tomorrow’s top tennis talents.

Training at Home

Vlad’s tennis journey began when he first picked up a racquet at age six after watching a friend play. He immediately fell in love with the sport, and in no time he was practicing shots in the basement that he watched Federer and Nadal hit on TV.

Vlad’s family has been a steady source of support throughout his tennis journey. “My family believes in me and supports my passion for tennis,” says Vlad. “They are my biggest fans, but also my biggest critics. They help me keep my feet on the ground!” Vlad’s younger sister, Maya, has also started her tennis journey. At just 9 years old, she’s already competing in U12 tournaments, following in her brother’s footsteps.

Over the years, he’s put in countless courses honing his skills. He began private lessons with coach Emil Kirchev, and he’s been taking private lessons ever since. “Vlad loves tennis, and that passion is what drives him,” says Emil. “He’s wanted to be a professional player since the beginning, and that high motivation pushes him to work hard every day.”

Emil also highlights his relationship with his players’ families: “I have always had a very good relationship with my players’ parents. I treat my players like my own kids. I give 100% when I start working with a new player, but the real success comes when we meet halfway—50% effort from each side.”

What’s Next

Next for Vlad are the U12 Provincial Championships this weekend, followed by the U14 Provincials the weekend after. He’ll then compete at Nationals, aiming for titles in both singles and doubles. When asked about his ultimate tennis goal, Vlad said, “My ultimate tennis dream is to become a pro tennis player, and—why not—number one in the world!”